Nissan’s K12 Micra has enough basic charms to make it worthy of consideration by used buyers after a small commuter style vehicle or possibly a first car.
In some eyes, cheeky styling and eye-catching colours lift it above shopping trolley status too.
For its physical size the tiny five-door hatch body’s interior space is surprising. Carrying four adults in moderate comfort is possible, though rear seats are really better suited to children. Nissan claimed 540 litres of load space with the rear seats folded.
There are two versions to choose from. The standard model’s basic kit includes antilock brakes with EBD and brake assist, dual airbags, and MP3 compatible CD player. Examples with the City Collection option are worth seeking as they add 15” alloys, side and curtain airbags and six-stack CD. Micra’s lap-only centre rear seatbelt and no ESC disappoint though. Micra scores a three-star ANCAP crash rating.
A 72kW, 1.4-litre engine with four-speed auto is the only powertrain. There’s no manual gearbox option. It’s mild mannered but still nippy enough about town thanks to the gearing. It will get the job done on the highway too, but feels like the small engine is working fairly hard.
Around town nimbleness and manoeuvrability is aided by speed-sensitive electric power-steering and a small turning circle. A space-saver spare wheel is standard.
K12 Micra doesn’t appear to suffer from major inherent problems. Avoid examples that aren’t well maintained and properly serviced though. Interior trims can mark fairly easily. Watch for previous accident repairs and scuffed wheel rims, both common issues from city life’s cut and thrust. Like any front-drive model, check for clunking noises from CV joints on low speed, full lock turns.
Under the pump
Micra will use between 5.7 litres and 8.5 litres of fuel every 100km, depending on model and driving conditions.
Price range
For an indication of what you would pay for this vehicle please go to RACQ's online car price guide or contact our Motoring Advice Service on 07 3666 9148 or 1800 623 456 outside the Brisbane area.
Competitors
Kia Rio 2007 - 2009
Hyundai Getz 2008 - 2010
Toyota Yaris 2008 - 2010